Review of The Deer Hunter (1978) by Dawdlingpoet — 20 Nov 2021

I can understand why this is regarded as a film classic - the 'Russian Roulette' scenes may well stay with me for some time. There are some sobering and even poignant moments present but I'd say its more of a symbolic film, than an out right action drama type of a film. The best performances, in my opinion of course, were by Robert De Niro and Christopher Walken. Its a film of two halves - the pre-'nam half and the other half post 'nam. Its bleak when you think about it towards the end, although I did find myself being a little surprised at the end, as I'd somehow expected there to have been more in the way of disturbing, bloody imagery. Don't get me wrong, I'm glad there wasn't as I don't much like that sort of thing but I suppose I had it in my head that this was going to be a very tough watch and I didn't entirely find it so - the previously mentioned roulette scenes do make for edgy viewing but I must have expected more somehow. The ending is pretty thoughtful and indeed it is somewhat thought provoking. Its really all about the toll that involvement in war (any war) can have on people - particularly, of course, a group of youngish, seemingly previously care free, people.

Its a film of its time and it makes for relatively thoughtful viewing. Thats about all I can think to say about it really. Yes, I suppose I would recommend it, although it may not be as visually shocking as you may expect - films these days are a lot more explicit but this film still contains important themes.